5 Tours We Love for Families in Arenal, Costa Rica

The Arenal rainforest area is filled with possibilities for a wide variety of travelers. With tours ranging from bird watching to rappelling down waterfalls, the touring can be tailored for all levels of adventure. Your family can hike the lush Arenal Volcano National Park, white water raft river rapids, and relax in hot springs. There are an endless combination of activities - and that is why it is one of our favorites.

Arenal Hanging Bridges Tour & Resort Hot Springs

This tour offers a balance of adventure and slowing down with both rainforest exploration and spa-like relaxation. Start this tour exploring the famous hanging bridges - located in a 600 acre reserve of primary forest. There are 16 hanging bridges along a two mile trail. While you walk, your guide will talk with you about the rich biodiversity of the forest. After your hike through the nature reserve, there are three great resort options for hot springs. One has 18 thermal hot springs with temperatures ranging from 83 °F to 103°F (Kids will love the waterslide here!), or we can book you at other, smaller hot springs that are quieter and more intimate. After your time in the hot springs, you will have a buffet dinner and then be taken back to your hotel. Note: Ages 6+.

Sky Tram, Sky Trek, and Sky Walk Tour Combo

This tour offers three terrific ways to explore the rainforest. First, ascend on the 'Sky Tram' - a gondola that can stop at any time to take in the views - ending at a platform overlooking the peaceful Lake Arenal. Next you'll up the adrenaline with the ‘Sky Trek’ canopy tour - a system of ziplines that span across canyons and between the treetops. The backdrop views of the volcano, lake, and forest, are truly beautiful. Finally, you'll experience the ‘Sky Walk’ - time to slow down and gain a third perspective of the waterfalls and the wildlife of the lush forest. Note: Minimum height is 4 feet tall. Ages 5+.

Rio Celeste Tour

If you're looking for a moderate hike and everyone is up for a full day out - the Rio Celeste hike is a great excursion. This is a 3.5 hour hike in a beautiful and unique part of Costa Rica. You'll see the stunning Rio Celeste waterfall and experience a primary rainforest. On arrival you'll hike for an hour and a half along the trails searching for monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds until you arrive at “Los Teñideros”. This is where the celeste color forms in the river, offering picture-perfect views you won't believe until you see it. The hike continues from this point for a couple of hours. Your reward is seeing the famous waterfall and bubbling hot springs. At the end of your trip, you'll be treated to a local meal before returning to Arenal. Note: This is 2 hour drive from Arenal. Ages 8+.

La Fortuna Waterfall Tour

If you're looking for a gorgeous waterfall experience, but you're not up for a whole day away (or maybe you're traveling with younger kids and the drive is too much for them) - a visit to the La Fortuna Waterfall is a great way to spend a half-day in the rainforest and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. La Fortuna Waterfall is fed by the River Tenorio and is found at the base of the dormant volcano of Cerro Chato. This will be around a 20-minute drive from your hotel in Arenal (give or take a bit depending on your hotel), and will take you through local cattle farms. You'll then hike downhill into the forest until you reach the base of the 230-foot high La Fortuna waterfall. Swim in the fresh water and enjoy the rainforest wildlife all around you. After that you can either relax with drinks and snacks before hiking back up to the car and return to your hotel or continue on for lunch at a local farm and restaurant. Note: All ages

Zip Lining & Hanging Bridges Congo Combo

If you're up for a little more adventure with the Hanging Bridges, the Congo Combo is a great choice. You'll start with a quiet two-mile hike that takes you up and down the rainforest - crossing 16 hanging bridges at heights of up to 196 ft. Admire the local flora and fauna, and then prepare for an adrenaline rush. You will zipline along the forest canopy across 13 platforms, with heights ranging 65-300 feet. As you soar, the views from above will take your breath away from picturesque landscapes of the rainforest, to the spectacular views of the Arenal volcano, and a range of rolling farmlands to lush mountain tops. Note: Age 5+.